This New York Times article “ How to Get a Job at Google, Part 2 ” (April 19, 2014) has generated some buzz about the value of college. I particularly like Cathy Davidson’s comments at the HASTAC blog (April 20, 2014). We provided a brief discussion of the topic on a Learn the 4 Ps post about a month ago, see “ Where do you want to work? ” (March 21, 2014). The NYT article features an interview with Laszlo Bock who is in charge of all hiring at Google. I think the articles and Davidson’s commentary should be thought-provoking for current or soon-to-be college students. It suggests how to leverage college to your advantage.

It can’t be easy selling airplanes for Boeing. It is a long selling cycle, you have to deal with large buying centers, and you have tough competition and powerful customers. And what if your hyped new product starts fires on planes — while they are flying! That can be a really hard selling job. That describes John Wojick’s job — he is Boeing’s top salesperson. You can read more in this article in the Wall Street Journal “ Boeing’s Top Salesman Works to Rebuild Customer Trust, Fend Off Airbus ” (October 8, 2013, non-subscribers may need to click here ). The article offers insights into key account management — when customers are very large. Sales is a common route [Continue Reading …]

Are you working on your personal marketing plan? You should always be thinking about strategy for your current or future career. In the personal marketing plan, a key element of the promotion blend is the cover letter. This short Fast Company article, “ Don’t Be Boring: How to Write a Cover Letter That Can Get You the Job ” (September 4, 2013) will give you some tips.

One of the most viral videos of all time was the original Evian babies video (the international version had more than 63 million views). Well, Evian is trying to do it again — you can check it out below. This is pretty hot off the press — as I post this there are only 301 views. How viral will this video go? How many views do you predict?

Branded content blurs the line between advertising and offering customers some other benefit. Over the last several years, many firms have begun to use branded content that solves a customer problem while simultaneously promoting a brand. I love this example of branded content by Brazilian skateboard chops the Bronx Skate Store . Skateboarders are tough on sneakers — an important part of their uniform. Since most are not flush with cash, they like to make their sneakers last a bit longer by patching the holes that come with their favored sport. Someone had the idea of creating “duct tape” business cards. The next [Continue Reading …]

Scientific research examining learning is beginning to identify what works — and what doesn’t. This article, “ Highlighting Is a Waste of Time: The Best and Worst Learning Techniques ” (Time, Janary 9, 2013) points out recent research in this area. Research suggests that flash cards and distributed practice (testing/quizzes) are particularly valuable in learning. What do you think of this research? Does it square with your learning process?

We are usually reluctant to feature anything related to drinking or sex here at L4Ps. But if we see something good, we have to show it. Most condom ads focus on sex — this one addresses two benefits (one for the brand and one for the product category) in a humorous way. Durex ad long version from Charlotte Rabate on Vimeo .